The Chairman, Federal Civil Service Club, Aderibigbe Oyekan, has urged organised labour to reconsider its planned strike, saying it will not resolve the current labour dispute. In an interview, Oyekan stated that although workers have legitimate concerns over their welfare and remuneration, industrial action is not the solution. He emphasized that dialogue remains the best way to address disagreements between workers and the Federal Government.
Oyekan noted that workers need to understand how government resources are allocated and spent to build confidence in government’s commitment to their welfare. He called on the Federal Government to improve its relationship with workers by being more transparent and accountable in the management and allocation of public resources. This, he believes, will help labour unions appreciate government efforts while ensuring that workers’ welfare and public amenities receive adequate attention.
The Federal Civil Service Club chair also discussed his administration’s achievements since assuming office. He stated that the club had been virtually inactive but had since embarked on construction, renovation, and repairs to revive its activities. Oyekan identified inadequate funding as the major challenge confronting the club, saying the cost of renovating and operating its facilities remains a major burden.
Under Oyekan’s leadership, the club’s social activities have improved significantly, with regular birthday celebrations and activities held on public holidays. He attributed the progress to the support of members of his executive, describing their relationship as “very cordial.” Oyekan is seeking a second term, and his administration’s achievements in restoring the club’s activities and facilities will be a major part of his campaign.
Oyekan also plans to expand the Federal Civil Service Club beyond Nigeria if re-elected. He aims to establish branches in countries where Nigerian civil servants and members travel for government-sponsored programmes, transforming the club into an international organisation. The club is also mobilising and educating its members on the need to participate in the electoral process.
Oyekan disclosed that he supports President Bola Tinubu for the presidency, Obafemi Hamzat for governor, and Lagos State House of Assembly member, Olusegun Yishua, for another term. He cited Yishua’s constituency interventions in education and healthcare, including free GCE forms, JAMB enrolment and coaching, as well as healthcare interventions such as glaucoma surgeries, free glasses, and health insurance.
The induction of new members is scheduled for tomorrow, and Oyekan is confident that his administration will continue to make progress. He emphasized the importance of dialogue in resolving labour disputes and urged workers to consider the impact of industrial action on the country.
Key points
- - Oyekan urges organised labour to shelve planned strike and engage in dialogue with the Federal Government. - The Federal Civil Service Club chair seeks a second term, citing achievements in restoring the club’s activities and facilities. - Oyekan plans to expand the club beyond Nigeria, establishing branches in countries where Nigerian civil servants travel for government-sponsored programmes.
